A Grand Day Out

Another beautiful day at Powis Castle. We had such a lovely time last time we visited that we swore we would return before the end of the year. Today was the day, we had clear blue skies (a slight chill in the air, but still, clear blue skies!). Last time we came Tom was just beginning to walk - he would take a step and then collapse in a heap. This time he trotted around the place like a pro. He even navigated steep verges and steps as well as returning to his fountain for a good play.

I don't think we had any crying and certainly no tears. He, of course ate as many stones as he could, and also decided that grass was tasty. His lovingly prepared sandwiches though were evil - nothing would persuade him to eat them. I'm sure if had made him a mud pie - he would have eaten every last morsel! I WILL teach him to like sandwiches - he is English after all! Apart from refusing his sandwiches we had a good picnic. Tom played 'Chase the Ball' and had a good giggle exploring his surroundings.

After another play in the fountain, we made our way back up the hill to the castle. Tom was getting tired by this stage, so he went into the rucksack so Matt could lug him up. We shared a piece of Bara Brith in the tea room and then made our way back to the car (past all the people having picnics in the car park - why oh why do people do that - I just don't understand) and home. A magical family day out.

Oh, I have forgotten to mention that Tom is beginning to drop his morning nap (boo hoo!) He doesn't sleep at nursery anymore and if he has had a good night's sleep he refuses to go down at 9am, however, he does get tired and wants to nap at 11 - so I have to distract him until after lunch and then he has an early afternoon nap. I'm sure it won't be long before he drops them all together.

AND he slept through last night - I heard 2 very short grizzles from him, nothing that needed any intervention. He walked his heart out today, so fingers crossed he sleeps well again.